- I suppose it's an index of Buster Keaton's greatness that one of his less impressive films still proves to be tremendously entertaining. The Cameraman is, based on my admittedly limited experience, an atypical Keaton film in that it is not absolutely astonishing. Sure, it features some of Keaton's tremendous wit, my favorite examples of which involve a stubborn piggybank and a crowded men's dressing room. Additionally, there are a few clever stunts, including Keaton riding on the outside of a bus so that he can sit next to his sweetheart, Sally (Marceline Day), and Keaton's attempt to keep the camera rolling in the midst of a Chinese Tong war. The film also features a monkey dressed up like a person, which would normally the funniest part of any film. Still, the overall experience is underwhelming compared to some of his brilliant earlier work, like Our Hospitality or Sherlock Jr. The gags and stunts are impressive, but not quite impressive enough. It's a rare comedian who can make you smile throughout his entire film and still be accused of underperforming.
- This was Keaton's first film with MGM.
- According to the imdb, this is apparently the first comedy to use an elevator crane (in the staircase sequence).
